Palácio do Deão, Goa, #46 on Top Restaurant Awards 2019 list

Vintage Goa revived

Chef Célia Ferrão da Gama opened Palácio do Deão with Ruben Vasco da Gama to offer homemade Goan food influenced by the zest and vigour of Latin flavours with a side of serenity. Built on a hillock in Quepem, the building fuses elements of Hindu and Portuguese architecture. This restored 200-year-old home belonged to Portuguese nobleman José Paulo de Almeida, founder of Quepem town. The de Gamas have painstakingly revived recipes for the sumptuous lunches and teas served in the rooms and verandah of the house overlooking the Kushavati River. Courses include prawn fritters, stuffed crab and, of course, bebinca. It’s a journey into the past that is a labour of love.

A dish at Palacio do Deao, Goa

Himalayan Raw & Fine Element: Palácio do Deão celebrates Goan seasonal produce with carefully preserved heritage recipes. Traditional techniques and local ingredients are essential to the kitchen to ensure that the aroma and flavour are authentic and that the timeless culinary practices are not forgotten.